Reinstall winXP

Hello all,
My pc got a Trojan Virus and my version of Windows XP was corrupted. Luckily I did manage to save all files and documents I wanted.But the problem is I could not reinstall from the C:/I386 WINNT32.EXE file so decided a clean install was way to go but XP came preloaded and no disk.I do have the Product key on sticker on back!!!!!
I thought I may be able to use a friends XP disk and insert my Key on activation.Obviously not. My question is is there a way around this problem without having to buy new disk/product code????
All help will be greatly appreciated
Thanks
Cliff

 

What is the make and model of the computer. If it is an OEM like HP, and you have not deleted the recovery partition, you may be able to restore the computer to the factory state. If not, OEM's usually sell recovery CD's for a nominal cost. For HP I believe it is about $20.

 

hi
I have the reload cd (used once before) but this did not work either this time, saying something about not being a Time pc. I have replaced motherboard due to failure and thought this was why reload cd would not work.
I just dont think its fair to have to pay for another licence when I have already paid for one and xp will not be supported in a couple of years but dont think mt pc is upto windows 7.
Thanks for your reply
Cliff

 

If the motherboard was identical, I think it should work. But, if it was some other manufacturer then the Recover CD's definitely would not work. OEM companies use a SLIC BIOS to get around activation and the recovery CD's are attached to that BIOS. As you say the computer is not up to Windows 7, you might want to look at installing a Linux distro like Ubuntu, especially if you do not have any critical programs that you need. Linux usually has comparable programs to windows.

Because Windows 8 will be arriving shortly, you could probably find good deals on Windows 7 computers in a bit if you are able to purchase. You can also find good deals on XP OEM CD's on ebay if you want to still use XP.